A Brief History 100 Years in the Making
Completed and operational since 1923, the Alaska Railroad is one of the oldest institutions in the state — it even precedes Alaska’s statehood! One hundred years ago, our tracks were completed in Nenana with a swing of a hammer. With that swing, steel tracks linked 470 miles from the port town of Seward to the Interior city of Fairbanks, and the Alaska Railroad has connected goods and travelers across Alaska ever since. Learn more about our full history.
For even more history, visit local museums along our rails throughout the year. The Anchorage Museum will also host a temporary exhibit on display from May 2023 – February 2024 to commemorate the milestone. Learn more at the Anchorage Museum website.
CENTENNIAL EVENTS AND COMMEMORATIONS
Open Houses
In Anchorage and Fairbanks, for the first time in three years, join us at our open houses for family activities, free train rides, static displays of railroad locomotives, music, and much more. This is our time to say thank you to our communities!
- Anchorage Depot: Saturday, May 6
- Fairbanks Depot: Saturday, Sept. 23
View updated open house information.
Gold Spike Commemoration in Nenana
Join us in Nenana on July 15, 2023, for a commemoration of the gold spike moment from 1923. It will be a day of celebrations with a block party, entertainment, food and a recreation of the driving of the gold spike.
Saturday, July 15, 2023
Alaska Railroad Nenana Depot | 900 A Street Nenana, Alaska
MORE CENTENNIAL FUN
Share Your Memories
Help us capture your unique stories about the Alaska Railroad with our new storytelling project. We created “Tales from the Rails” to gather anecdotes, memories and milestones. If you have a story to share, please email AKtalesfromtherails@gmail.com and we will be in touch with further instructions! Learn more about the storytelling project.
Centennial Souvenirs
Commemorative prints and posters from Alaska artists William “Art” Chase and Noah Nolywaika are available at the Alaska Railroad gift shops. Learn more about the stories behind the prints. Plus, be sure to check out the Alaska Railroad Gift Shop for additional centennial souvenirs.
